Brunello di Montalcino Shines in New York: A Toast to the 2020 Vintage

For the new edition of Benvenuto Brunello NY, over 100 labels were showcased to more than 450 industry professionals and media representatives

NEW YORK, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino made its highly anticipated return to the U.S. for the latest edition of Benvenuto Brunello, one of the wine world's most prestigious and eagerly anticipated annual events.

Held in New York City on February 4th at GH on The Park, the event provided media and trade professionals with an exclusive opportunity to explore the distinctive terroir of Montalcino. Attendees were immersed in the unique elements as they explored what makes Brunello a quintessential example of "Made in Italy" excellence on the global stage.

Guided by Italy's first Master of Wine, Gabriele Gorelli, select participants joined two seminars titled "Delving deeper into Brunello 2020", where Gorelli shared insights into the region's soils, climate, and modern winemaking techniques that contribute to the exceptional quality of Brunello.

"Montalcino is truly extraordinary — not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for the unwavering dedication of the people who have tended this land for generations. Through their passion and commitment, they have transformed a Sangiovese from Central Italy into the world-renowned Brunello. Despite the challenges dictated by the global pandemic, the 2020 vintage stands out as a warm vintage retaining freshness, already captivating — vibrant, bright, and succulent," says Gabriele Gorelli, MW.

Gabriele Gorelli MW introduced the new vintage assessment system adopted by the Consorzio Brunello di Montalcino, transitioning from a star-based rating to qualitative criteria. Developed in collaboration with Andrea Lonardi MW, Copernico Srl, and Gabriele himself, the model integrates unparalleled high-resolution weather data to define each vintage's profile, ensuring a globally relevant evaluation of Sangiovese. For the first time, an external panel of eight Masters of Wine (MWs) assessed the 2020 Brunello at Benvenuto Brunello (Nov 14–18, 2024), analyzing stylistic nuances, climate impact, and evolving trends.

Benvenuto Brunello NYC featured a walk-around tasting alongside the seminars, bringing together over 450 journalists and industry professionals who engaged directly with 34 producers showcasing the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino vintage, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, and Rosso di Montalcino

"We were thrilled to return to New York to present our new vintages. The United States has long been our core market, with annual exports of approximately 3.5 million bottles. Interest in Brunello continues to rise, reflecting the growing American passion for the quality and authenticity of our wines. This continued success motivates us to keep sharing our rich heritage and craftsmanship with the American public," says Fabrizio Bindocci, President of Consorzio Brunello di Montalcino.

The celebration of Benvenuto Brunello concluded with a cocktail party, held from 6 to 9 PM at The Skylark, the exclusive lounge bar overlooking the Empire State Building, where producers celebrated together with a select group of journalists and industry professionals.

The Consorzio Brunello di Montalcino has officially kicked off its calendar of activities for the year, which will take it to some of the most important trade shows, including Wine Paris-Vinexpo, ProWein Düsseldorf, and Vinitaly. For more information about upcoming activities, please visit: https://www.consorziobrunellodimontalcino.it/

About Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino
The Consortium of Brunello di Montalcino, established in 1967 shortly after the DOC designation, is a voluntary association of vineyard owners dedicated to safeguarding and highlighting the qualities of Brunello di Montalcino. The consortium plays a pivotal role in preserving the wine's distinct characteristics, promoting it nationally and internationally, and ensuring its quality. It boasts approximately 200 members, including producers and bottlers, representing a majority of the region's wineries. The consortium is committed to protecting the Montalcino territory and promoting environmental sustainability through eco-friendly farming practices and responsible resource management. Its primary objective is to elevate the status of Brunello di Montalcino on a global scale, emphasizing the wine's quality, history, culture, and regional heritage. https://www.consorziobrunellodimontalcino.it/en/home/home

About Colangelo & Partners
Colangelo & Partners specializes in premium food, wine and spirits brands, and has long-established relationships with the key press that drive these business categories and help determine the industry leaders. Agency principals have years of experience in retail and distribution as well as communications, a rare combination that gives Colangelo & Partners invaluable insights into consumer purchasing behavior. The agency focuses on "closing the loop" between creative communications programs, distribution, promotion, publicity and the consumer in order to maximize the efficiency of its communications programs and deliver measurable results. http://www.colangelopr.com

SOURCE Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino